Ride On, Will Cody!: A Legend of the Pony Express

This book uses carefully chosen words in verse to create vivid imagery, enhanced by the beautiful illustrations. It was a fun lesson about the Pony Express and one legendary ride, followed by the author's research about the topic and what reality might have been. We read it in class multiple times and explored the author's careful choice of words and phrases, what legends are, what the Pony Express was and how it compares to modern times, what life was like back then and how illustrations help the reader. Lots of wonderful lessons you can teach, not to mention the fact that the author has a website with a teacher's guide.

I loved how the words flowed when I read it aloud to my son. I also love that I was sharing historical information with him. There are also a couple of pages at the back with factual information and real photos.

Caroline Starr Rose never disappoints. I will read any book this author writes because I know I'm in for a treat.

My kids and I love reading this fun book and enjoy the great illustrations.

Participating in #classroombookaday, I am constantly hunting for picture books to share with students from a variety of genres; therefore, I jumped at the opportunity to read and review Caroline Starr Rose's new historical fiction picture book Ride On Will Cody.Written in lyrical verse, Caroline Starr Rose beautifully tells the legend of young Will Cody who later gained notoriety as folk hero and Wild West showman, Buffalo Bill. Her precise choice of words perfectly captures the extreme weather conditions and harsh terrain that Pony Express riders faced on their daily routes. Joe Lillington's illustrations support the text by dramatically depicting the riders' arduous journey.At the end of the book, the author shares historical research about the Pony Express and Will Cody. As a teacher, I appreciate that students can read facts and gain a better knowledge of America expansion.I received a copy of Ride On Will Cody from the author in exchange for our honest review.

4.5 stars!We get grabby hands whenever there's a new Caroline Starr Rose book (whose books are automatic must-buys in our house), and we were so excited to get a look at this book!Caroline's historical fiction is always well-researched and soaked in imagery and lovely language. She's able to amp up the tension and keep readers interested in a full story arc in so few words. We also always love when an author's note inspires us to bring out the maps and trace a journey!My kids also loved the colorful, entrancing illustrations, especially the page spread with all the horses Will Cody used.

A lively verse retelling of Will Cody's most famous ride for the Pony Express. Art matches the text in energy and movement! Rose includes a wonderfully detailed note about the Pony Express and Will Cody (Buffalo Bill) at the end. Young readers who dream of being cowboys will have their interest piqued in this unique service many "cowboys" provided before the telegram rendered them less necessary.

As a homeschool mom, I’m always on the lookout for new books. I want fun books, but also stories that will captivate my kids’ attention and imagination. Books that will make them want to read the story over and over again. “Ride On, Will Cody” is most definitely one of those books. But what makes it even more special is Caroline Starr Rose’s beautiful writing style; her unique way of conveying a story; and all of it wrapped in completely beautiful illustrations.Add to this the fact that this story will make you and your kids want to open up your encyclopedias and history books to learn more about the Pony Express, Buffalo Bill and the West... and you have found a new favorite family book!